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Stem cells and the heart: ethics, organization and funding

Abstract

The application of stem cell biology to repair of the heart offers therapeutic potential. However, randomized, double-blind, controlled trials are required to clarify under what conditions it may be effective. The unprecedented nature of the discovery of a therapeutic role for autologous stem cells brings with it unprecedented challenges in clinical application of basic biology, ethics, funding and organization. It is suggested that the academic community should show leadership.

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References

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Correspondence to John F Martin.

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The author declares no competing financial interests.

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Martin, J. Stem cells and the heart: ethics, organization and funding. Nat Rev Cardiol 3 (Suppl 1), S136–S137 (2006). https://doi.org/10.1038/ncpcardio0445

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1038/ncpcardio0445

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